Shane Gould, environmental ambassador, joins a league of her own

Swimming legend Shane Gould has been named a Centennial Ambassador for the Gould League, Australia’s oldest environmental education organisation.

Shane, who stunned the world in 1972 when she won five Olympic medals – including three gold – as a 15-year-old, has a long relationship with environmental causes, including campaigns to save the endangered Tasmanian Devil and create more aquatic reserves around the Tasmanian coast.

“We share not only a name but also a commitment to nature,” Shane said.

“I am delighted to see that such an influential organisation has reached its centenary and to be able to play a part in spreading its important environmental and conservation messages.

“Any organisation that focuses attention on how we can better treat the natural environment – whether in the water or out of it – is worthy of our support.

“I encourage all Australians to ensure that the Gould League remains vital and successful in its second century.”

Gould League executive officer David Walker said the League was delighted to be able to honour Shane’s passion for the environment.

Shane joins the Victorian Parliamentary Secretary for Water and Environment, Michael Crutchfield, and Chris Darwin, the great-great-great grandson of famed British naturalist Charles Darwin as the Gould League’s Centennial Ambassadors.

“Our centenary is a significant day in the life of the Gould League and we are delighted that such dedicated souls have agreed to add their names to the millions of Australians who have been touched by the Gould League,” David said.

“Their love of nature is infectious. Like them, we have been committed to spreading that message far and wide for 100 years.

“Where once it was our famous bird lovers’ pledge, now it is the benefits of conservation and sustainable urban living that we’re helping spread to schools and the wider community.”

About Shane Gould: Shane Gould MBE is one of the world’s greatest female swimmers after winning three gold medals, one silver and one bronze at the 1972 Olympics. She remains the only woman ever to win five individual medals at one Olympics. She is now involved in public speaking, writing, photography, and a portfolio of business interests as well as studying for a masters of environmental management. Her philanthropic works include environmental projects, and charities that improve physical health and family relationships through activity in and out of the water.

About the Gould League: The Gould League is Australia’s oldest environmental education organisation, an independent non-profit organisation dedicated to environmental education and training in sustainability. It was established in 1909, with Prime Minister Alfred Deakin as its first President. Since then it has been recognised as an innovator and leader in environmental education with multiple state, national and international awards.